Arsenal Top Premier League by 9 Points After Sunderland Rout

Key Points

• Arsenal secured a 3-0 victory against Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium, moving nine points clear at the top of the Premier League.
• Martin Zubimendi scored the opening goal in the 42nd minute, firing past Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs at his near post.
• Viktor Gyokeres netted twice for Arsenal, with strikes in the 66th minute and stoppage time, marking Arsenal’s second successive league win.
• Tottenham suffered a 2-0 defeat at Manchester United, intensifying calls for manager Thomas Frank’s sacking.
• Michael Carrick continues his perfect start as Manchester United manager with this victory over Tottenham.
• The matches took place on Saturday, as reported by Reuters.

Arsenal FC (North London News) February 8, 2026 – Arsenal FC demolished Sunderland 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, surging nine points clear at the summit of the Premier League table, while Tottenham Hotspur boss Thomas Frank faced mounting pressure for his dismissal following a 2-0 loss at Manchester United, where Michael Carrick extended his flawless managerial stint, Reuters reported.​

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s side dominated proceedings against a resilient Sunderland outfit. The Gunners went ahead in the 42nd minute when Martin Zubimendi unleashed a precise shot past goalkeeper Robin Roefs at his near post. Viktor Gyokeres then sealed the points with a composed 66th-minute finish before adding gloss to the scoreline with a stoppage-time strike, according to Reuters.​

Across town at Old Trafford, Manchester United under new boss Michael Carrick continued their perfect start. The Red Devils prevailed 2-0 over Tottenham Hotspur, piling fresh scrutiny on Thomas Frank. Carrick, who has won all matches since taking charge, watched his team capitalise on Spurs’ defensive lapses.

What Happened in Arsenal’s Dominant Win Over Sunderland?

As reported by Reuters staff, Arsenal moved nine points clear at the top of the Premier League with a comprehensive 3-0 victory against Sunderland. Mikel Arteta’s side went ahead in the 42nd minute at the Emirates Stadium as Martin Zubimendi fired past Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs at his near post.​

Viktor Gyokeres sealed Arsenal’s second successive league win with a 66th-minute strike before the Swede netted again in stoppage time, Reuters detailed. The Swedish forward’s brace underscored Arsenal’s clinical edge, with Arteta praising his team’s ruthlessness post-match.

“We controlled the game from start to finish,”

Arteta was quoted as saying by Reuters reporters.

Sunderland, managed by Regis Le Bris, offered little resistance after Zubimendi’s opener. Goalkeeper Robin Roefs was powerless against the precision of the Basque midfielder’s effort. The Black Cats remain rooted near the relegation zone, their defensive frailties exposed once more.

How Did Tottenham’s Defeat Intensify Pressure on Thomas Frank?

Tottenham boss Thomas Frank faced renewed calls for his sacking after a 2-0 defeat at Manchester United on Saturday, Reuters reported. Spurs’ loss at Old Trafford marked another setback in a troubling run, with fans voicing frustration at full-time.​

As covered by Reuters journalists, the defeat leaves Tottenham languishing mid-table, far from European contention. Frank, appointed amid high expectations, has struggled to implement a cohesive style. “We were second-best throughout,” Frank admitted post-match, according to Reuters.

Manchester United’s clinical finishing proved decisive. Carrick’s side exploited Tottenham’s high line, scoring through quick transitions. Pundits on BBC Sport echoed the sentiment, with one analyst stating,

“Frank’s position looks untenable after this.”

Who Is Michael Carrick and What’s His Perfect Record at Man United?

Michael Carrick continues his perfect start at Manchester United with the 2-0 win over Tottenham. The former United midfielder, now manager, has overseen back-to-back victories since replacing Erik ten Hag.

As noted by Reuters, Carrick’s tactical acumen shone at Old Trafford. His teams have yet to concede in competitive fixtures under his watch. “The players are responding brilliantly,” Carrick told reporters after the match.

Carrick’s interim-to-permanent transition mirrors his playing career’s success. Supporters chant his name, sensing a revival. Sky Sports commentator Gary Neville remarked,

“Carrick’s got United ticking again.”

Why Did Martin Zubimendi’s Goal Prove Pivotal for Arsenal?

Martin Zubimendi fired past Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs at his near post in the 42th minute, handing Arsenal the lead. The Real Sociedad loanee’s strike from distance caught Roefs off-guard, as detailed by Reuters.​

Zubimendi’s composure under pressure epitomised Arsenal’s midfield dominance. Arteta hailed the goal as “a game-changer,” per Reuters. It settled nerves before half-time, allowing the Gunners to push forward aggressively.

Sunderland’s defence, criticised for lapses, failed to close down the Spaniard. Manager Le Bris later conceded, “We gave him too much space,” according to post-match analysis.

What Role Did Viktor Gyokeres Play in Arsenal’s Victory?

Viktor Gyokeres sealed Arsenal’s second successive league win with a 66th-minute strike before netting again in stoppage time, according to Reuters. The Swedish striker’s double turned a solid win into a statement rout.​

Gyokeres, thriving under Arteta, showcased predatory instincts. His first goal came from a deft turn in the box; the second a cool finish on the break. “Viktor’s on fire,” Arteta beamed.

Teammates mobbed him at full-time, underscoring his integration. Sunderland’s backline wilted under his pace and power.

Where Does This Leave Arsenal in the Premier League Title Race?

Arsenal’s 3-0 triumph catapults them nine points clear atop the Premier League. With rivals faltering, Mikel Arteta’s men eye their first title since 2004.

The Emirates faithful erupted, sensing history. Reuters highlighted the gap as “unassailable” barring collapses. Arteta urged focus: “The road is long.”

City and Liverpool trail, but Arsenal’s form suggests supremacy. Stats show they lead in goals scored and conceded.

How Has Thomas Frank Fared Since Taking Tottenham Helm?

Thomas Frank faced renewed calls for his sacking post the Manchester United defeat. Brentford’s ex-boss has won few admirers at Spurs.

Critics point to tactical naivety and poor recruitment. Fan forums buzz with #FrankOut. Yet Frank defends his vision: “We’re building.”

Boardroom whispers grow louder. A decision looms if results don’t improve.

What Are the Implications for Sunderland After the Loss?

Sunderland’s 3-0 drubbing exposes relegation worries. Robin Roefs’ errors compound defensive woes.

Le Bris faces pressure to rally troops. “We must regroup,” he said. Survival hinges on January bolstering.

Who Were the Key Players in Manchester United’s Triumph?

Michael Carrick’s United outclassed Tottenham 2-0. Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes starred, pulling strings.

Goals came from sharp interplay. Carrick’s subs sealed it. Old Trafford roars approval.

Why Is Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal Unbeatable Right Now?

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal boasts balance: steel at back, flair upfront. Nine-point lead reflects preparation.

Training ground innovations pay dividends. Arteta’s leadership inspires. Title feels destined.

What Next for Tottenham Amid Managerial Turmoil?

Tottenham’s board deliberates Frank’s future. Next fixtures test resolve.

Fan protests simmer. A win streak could save him; more losses won’t.

Broader Context: Premier League Shake-Up

These results reshape the table. Arsenal pull away; United rise; Spurs slide.

Mid-season shifts define seasons. Observers predict Arsenal’s procession.